NASA Astronauts Carry iPhones to Space on Artemis II to Capture Real-Life Moments

For the first time in history, NASA astronauts are carrying personal iPhones into space during the Artemis II mission, which launched on April 1, 2026.

This move marks a major change from earlier missions, where astronauts were only allowed to use specially designed government devices. Now, the crew has been permitted to bring their own smartphones under strict safety rules.

The iPhones must stay in airplane mode at all times to avoid any interference with the spacecraft’s systems. Without network access, they are being used mainly as cameras and personal recording devices.

Why Astrounts taking Iphones with Them?

The reason behind this decision is to give astronauts a way to capture real, behind-the-scenes moments of life in space. NASA wants to make space missions more relatable and engaging for the public. These devices allow astronauts to take photos, record videos, and document their daily experiences in zero gravity more naturally.

In short, the iPhones are not for communication, but for storytelling—helping share a more human side of space exploration with people on Earth.